PANTOTHENIC ACID (B5) – Best Nutrition Products

Pantothenic acid, vitamin B5, is known as B3 in parts of Europe. Its name comes from the Greek panthos, which means “everywhere.” It was first isolated from rice husks in 1939. Pantothenic acid is widely found everywhere – in our body tissues and in plants. Pantothenic acid is a B-complex water-soluble vitamin, so a regular daily intake is required.

Pantothenic acid is very important to the process of releasing energy from foods. This is because it is part of coenzyme A, which plays a major role in energy release. Pantothenic acid is used to make and renew body tissues. It is necessary for the production of antibodies and therefore proper immune function.

DEFICIENCY SYMPTOMS

These include fatigue, depression, insomnia, loss of appetite, indigestion, and cramps.

THERAPEUTIC USES

• nausea and indigestion

• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

• “burning feet” syndrome

• skin disorders

Those WHO MAY NEED TO SUPPLEMENT

• alcoholics

• women using the contraceptive pill

• pregnant women

• smokers

REQUIRED NUTRITIONAL INTAKE

There are no specific recommendations regarding the intake of pantothenic acid. An average of 3-7 mg daily is thought to be sufficient for most adults.

BEST FOOD SOURCES

Food Pantothenic Acid (mg/100g)

brewer’s yeast……………………………………………….. 9.5

pig’s liver………………………………………………………. 6.5

yeast extract…………………………………………………… 3.8

nuts………………………………………………………………… 2.7

wheat bran…………………………………………………….. 2.4

wheat germ……………………………………………………. 2.2

eggs………………………………………………………………… 1.8

poultry…………………………………………………………… 1.2

SAFETY

To date, no toxic effects have been recorded with the use of pantothenic acid. It is linked with riboflavin in its function in the production of energy.

INTERACTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

Pantothenic acid is one of the B-complex vitamins and so ideally should be taken as part of the complex, although single supplementation is acceptable as part of a nutritional therapeutic program.